Background on Jamaica and its Relevance
Jamaica, an island nation in the Caribbean, has recently been hit by Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm that brought devastating winds exceeding 295 kilometers per hour. The storm has since weakened to Category 4 but still poses significant threats to the country.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness’s Declaration
In response to the hurricane’s impact, Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared Jamaica a “catastrophic zone.” This decision, which took effect on the same day, was made following consultation with emergency services and local authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of all Jamaicans.
Government’s Priorities and Measures
Holness emphasized that the government’s primary focus has always been on securing the safety and welfare of all Jamaicans. He explained that declaring the country a “threat zone” as the hurricane approached was a proactive measure. Now, with Hurricane Melissa having made landfall and causing significant damage, the new legislative provision aims to protect lives and maintain stability.
The government will use these orders to continue managing the hurricane’s response, ensuring consumer protection and preventing exploitation as citizens secure essential supplies like food, water, and other necessities.
Impact on Jamaicans
As Hurricane Melissa crossed Jamaica, approximately 6,000 people sought refuge in shelters, according to Desmond McKenzie, the Minister of Government. The Jamaican government anticipates that over 50,000 people may be displaced due to the storm’s impact, as reported by Jamaica Star.
The hurricane made landfall in New Hope, Westmoreland, on Jamaica’s southern coast. Although it initially posed an extreme threat, as described by the National Hurricane Center (NHC) in the United States, Melissa has since weakened to Category 4.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is a “catastrophic zone” declaration? A “catastrophic zone” declaration is a legal measure taken by the government to protect lives and maintain stability during extreme weather events, such as Hurricane Melissa.
- Why did Jamaica’s Prime Minister declare the country a “catastrophic zone”? Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared Jamaica a “catastrophic zone” following consultation with emergency services and local authorities to prioritize the safety and well-being of all Jamaicans amidst Hurricane Melissa’s impact.
- How many people have sought refuge, and how many are expected to be displaced? Approximately 6,000 people have sought refuge in shelters so far. The Jamaican government anticipates that over 50,000 people may be displaced due to Hurricane Melissa’s impact.
- What is the current status of Hurricane Melissa? Initially a Category 5 storm with winds exceeding 295 kilometers per hour, Hurricane Melissa has since weakened to Category 4 while still posing significant threats to Jamaica.
